Everton in move to hijack Aston Villa’s Ross Barkley deal – sources
Everton have registered their interest in re-signing Ross Barkley from Luton Town but are set to lose out to Aston Villa, sources have told Football Insider.
The Merseysiders have been unable to win the race for the English midfielder’s signature because the club need to sell players before they can secure any incomings.
Sources have told Football Insider the situation is “hugely frustrating for Sean Dyche” as the Everton manager would “love to sign Barkley”.
Football Insider revealed on 26 May that Aston Villa have agreed a two-year deal with a 12-month option with the 30-year-old as they close in on signing him from Luton next month.
There is believed to be no transfer fee involved as Barkley’s contract with the Hatters was a one-year agreement with a 12-month extension option, but a clause was included in the deal allowing him to leave for free if the club were relegated.
Football Insider exclusively broke the news on 18 May that Villa had opened talks with Barkley before revealing on 25 May a “full agreement” was in place to take him to Villa Park.
Everton were joined in the pursuit of their former academy product by multiple Premier League clubs, but he is now expected to join Unai Emery’s side this summer.
Everton finances block Ross Barkley return deal
Barkley has revived his career over the past year following several impressive performances since joining Luton after leaving French club Nice on a free last summer.
The former Everton favourite registered five goals and four assists in 32 Premier League appearances across the campaign despite playing in a deeper role for Rob Edwards’s side.
That prompted Dyche to assess whether a return to Merseyside could be a possibility, but finances have once again scuppered his transfer plans.
Football Insider revealed on 18 May the Toffees boss could look to leave Goodison this summer due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the club.
Dyche is expected to see his options depleted further over the coming weeks after Football Insider revealed on 21 May the Blues will need to sell at least one of their “big” stars before they submit their accounts on 30 June.
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